Leaving on a Jet Plane: Travel Tips for People with Hearing Loss

Posted by Epic-Jacob on Mar 19, 2018

Traveling for fun is scientifically proven to make us happier and healthier, but if you’re traveling with hearing loss it can be stressful, too. If you’re one of the over 20 million people in the U.S. with hearing loss, don’t stay home. Travel prepared!

Understanding Tinnitus: Top 5 Things To Know

Posted by Admin on Mar 06, 2018

Tinnitus is Latin for “to tinkle or to ring like a bell.” It can come as a ringing, a hiss, a crackle, a buzz or even a whistle… but in whatever form you hear it, it’s actually a sign of hearing loss. Tinnitus can be a temporary or permanent condition, depending upon the cause.

Whether you’ve been diagnosed with tinnitus or you’ve been struggling to manage symptoms on your own, here are the top 5 things to know.

Tech Roundup: Top Apps for People with Hearing, Vision or Speech Disabilities

Posted by Admin on Feb 16, 2018

Can you believe mobile apps have only been around for 10 years? From on-the-go banking and fitness trackers to social media, games and more - it’s hard to imagine life without our smartphones and tablets. And the innovations just keep coming!

5 Tips For Talking To Loved Ones About Hearing Loss

Posted by Admin on Feb 01, 2018

It’s never easy to admit when we have a problem, and that’s especially true when it comes to age-related hearing loss. For those affected, it’s common to experience a wide range of emotions including anger, grief and denial.

Here are 5 important tips for talking to loved ones about hearing loss.

What Does Hearing Loss Sound Like?

Posted by Admin on Jan 16, 2018

Do you have a family member, friend or colleague with hearing loss? If so, you know how important it is to be supportive and understanding – especially if their hearing loss is age-related or work-related, and you’re all adjusting to new communication needs.

Here are some ways you can gain perspective by experiencing what hearing loss sounds like.

Look Who’s Talking: Internet-Based Relay Services for South Dakotans

4 Helpful Ways to Make Driving While Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing Easier

Posted by Admin on Dec 28, 2017

First, let’s dispel a common myth: people who are deaf or hard-of-hearing CAN drive, and many are excellent drivers. Laws passed in all 50 states guarantee the right to drive. However, it’s important to take precautions to keep everyone safe on the road.

Here are 4 helpful ways to make driving while deaf or hard-of-hearing easier.

A History of Captioning: Where It Started and Where It’s Going

Posted by Admin on Dec 14, 2017

Ever since Samuel Morse invented the telegraph in 1837, we’ve been using machines for long-distance communication.

But it wasn’t until the 1950s that captioning for deaf and hard-of-hearing people became mainstream in the film industry – and we had to wait for the Telecommunications Act of 1982 for mandated telephone access for all.

When you look at it that way, captioned services have come a long way in 35 years.

Let’s see how far we’ve come. Take a look back on the history of captioning.

5 Ways for Hard-of-Hearing People to Navigate Working in the Service Industry

Posted by Admin on Dec 04, 2017

If you’re hard-of-hearing, it’s no secret that communicating can be difficult – especially on the job. As with every other part of your life, it’s important not to let these challenges stand in the way of accomplishing your goals. Everyone deserves a rewarding career that they love. That includes you!

Here are 5 ways for hard-of-hearing people to navigate working in the service industry.

How Talking On the Phone Positively Affects Your Mental Health

Posted by Admin on Nov 16, 2017

It’s no secret that talking on the phone with friends and family can be a great source of happiness – and even the most mundane, task-oriented calls give us a sense of connection and control over our lives.

Without this daily social connection, people who are deaf, hard-of-hearing or speech impaired can be at risk for chronic sadness or depression. They may also experience feelings of irritability, poor self-image and feelings of inadequacy.

Here are 3 ways relay services can help people live happier, more connected lives.

4 Phrases to Skip When Interacting with the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Community

Posted by Admin on Nov 03, 2017

Whether you’re meeting an individual with hearing loss for the first time or interacting with someone you know well, the basic rules of conversational etiquette apply: Think before you speak. Talk in a normal voice. Be polite and attentive.

Trying to connect with an individual with hearing loss without understanding their culture can make you come off as rude, however unintentionally. Try to avoid these four phrases at all costs.

Your Guide to Hearing Implants: Your Options & How They Work

Posted by Admin on Oct 12, 2017

If you’ve experienced hearing loss in your daily life, there’s a chance that a hearing implant might be a good fit for your situation. If your audiologist recommends it, you have several options when it comes to implants.

Here are just a few of the potential options your audiologist might present to you, depending on the level and nature of your hearing loss.

Hearing Loss & Meetings: Tips for Workplace Efficiency

Posted by Admin on Sep 28, 2017

Being hard-of-hearing in a primarily hearing workplace doesn’t need to be difficult to navigate. Employers and coworkers can work together to better accommodate with each other —particularly in meetings and workplace gatherings.

Here are some ways office workers can improve meetings when it comes to coworkers with hearing loss.

5 Ways the Deaf Community Has Come a Long Way Since TTY Equipment

Posted by Admin on Sep 14, 2017

Tech advancements have made an impact on the everyday lives of many people—and the deaf and hard-of-hearing community is no exception. Advancements in telephones, hearing aids, FM systems, cochlear implants and other TTY technologies have undoubtedly made their marks on the population.

But what does this impact look like, and how has it affected relationships with the hearing community?

What Most Often Causes Hearing Loss in Children?

Posted by Admin on Aug 31, 2017

Hearing loss in children can vary, but some causes can be prevented with medical care. Middle and outer ear infections are the leading cause of hearing loss in children, with 75 percent of infants and children experiencing this type of infection by age three.

6 Influential Moments in Deaf Culture

Posted by Admin on Aug 24, 2017

The deaf and hard-of-hearing community has had numerous important individuals and milestones that have improved lives over time. These opportunities have helped shape what it’s like to be a deaf person worldwide.

Here are just a few of the influential moments in deaf culture that have made an impact on the community.

4 Common Causes of Sudden Hearing Loss

Posted by Admin on Jul 27, 2017

Not all hearing loss is brought on gradually through aging or other causes. Sometimes hearing loss can occur suddenly—and it’s not always immediately evident why. Unfortunately, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, only approximately 10-15 percent of sudden hearing loss is actually diagnosable.

How to Learn Sign Language: The Basics to Get You Started

Posted by Admin on Jul 13, 2017

Have you ever wanted to learn a second language? Starting can sometimes be the hardest part. When it comes to American Sign Language (ASL), all it takes is the right first steps to move toward an eventual total understanding.

Here are a few basic tactics to get you started on your road to ASL fluency.

The “Bad Lip Reading” Videos: What It Tells Us About the Hard-of-Hearing Community

Posted by Admin on Jun 29, 2017

Whenever a new “Bad Lip Reading” video is released, viewers get a good laugh. It is entertaining to watch what the creators perceive the people in the videos to be saying because it is almost always wildly out of context of the actual video content.

It’s further proof that it’s easy to make mistakes when you lip-read. Here’s what the “Bad Lip Reading” videos say about the communication style.

4 Ways Assistive Technology is Changing in 2017

Posted by Admin on Jun 22, 2017

Assistive technology for hard-of-hearing individuals includes products that enhance a person’s hearing capabilities, utilized by those who have experienced hearing loss. There have been many recent developments in assistive technology through the years, including hearing aids, alarms, shakers and some brand-new tools.

Communicating on the Go: 5 Mobile Apps for the Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing

Posted by Admin on Jun 15, 2017

Sometimes all the smart technology and screens can seem overwhelming and even distracting. However, technology has a lot of significant pros when it comes to helping the hard-of-hearing and deaf communities. Thanks to incredibly talented app developers, you can use mobile applications on your smartphone to help make conversations feel effortless.

Take a look at some of the hearing- and speech-assistance apps you can download today.

7 Examples of Assistive Technology for the Hard-of-Hearing

Posted by Admin on Apr 21, 2017

Living with hearing loss doesn’t need to be frustrating—there are plenty of technology options to help overcome potential challenges posed by hearing loss.​Let’s take a look at some of the technology used to assist people who are deaf or hard of hearing.

5 Common Mistakes Made When Communicating with the Hard of Hearing

Posted by Admin on Mar 23, 2017

Let’s say you’re about to have a conversation with a friend, loved one or even a stranger who has experienced hearing loss of some sort. What are you most apt to do? Do you increase your speaking volume? Do you make assumptions about your conversation partner?

Here are just a few of the most common mistakes people make when speaking with hard-of-hearing individuals.

How to Improve Your Relationships Amid Hearing Loss

Posted by Admin on Feb 23, 2017

It’s February—and love is perhaps in the air. When it comes to hearing loss, communication and conversation are even more pivotal to your relationships. It’s important to take the steps to ensure you can engage with the people you love without frustration or miscommunication.

Here are a few tips for managing relationship conversations amid hearing loss.

Winter 2017: Relay South Dakota Upcoming Events

Posted by Admin on Feb 13, 2017

We’re more than a month into 2017, and it’s already looking busy for Relay South Dakota this season. We have a substantial list of events we’ll be attending throughout the remainder of the season and into spring.

Here are a few of your opportunities to visit with a Relay South Dakota rep about our products and services.

The Guide to Keeping Your Hearing Safe During Football Games

Posted by Admin on Jan 19, 2017

It’s that time of year—if you’re a pigskin fan, you’re probably going to hit a few games now and again throughout the next few weeks. With the Super Bowl fast approaching, football games are a hotspot.

But when it comes to outdoor or partially outdoor games, are you taking the proper precautions to protect your hearing? Here are some tips.

New Year’s Resolutions: How to Prioritize Your Hearing in 2017

Posted by Admin on Jan 11, 2017

Welcome to another year—with a new set of challenges to face and opportunities to embrace. Many people enjoy making resolutions at the start of the new year, but few follow through on those new-year promises.

Here are four popular New Year’s resolutions and why addressing your hearing loss can help you achieve them and have a successful 2017.

How Treating Hearing Loss Affects Your Physical and Mental Health

Posted by Admin on Dec 23, 2016

Rule No. 1 when it comes to hearing loss – don’t let it cause you to be anti-social or retreat from spending quality time with friends and family. One of the best ways to avoid this pitfall is to make efforts to treat your hearing loss, whether it’s assistive listening devices (ALDs) or hearing aids.

Here are just some of the many health benefits of taking the time to treat your hearing loss.

6 Tips for Communicating More Effectively Through Hearing Loss

Posted by Admin on Nov 30, 2016

Having a thorough conversation can sometimes be a challenge if you or your conversation partner has experienced hearing loss. Missing out on details or having to repeat statements can make conversations frustrating.

Next time, keep these six tips in mind to help your conversations flow more smoothly.

5 Tips for Managing Hearing Loss in the Workplace

Posted by Admin on Nov 17, 2016

Hearing loss can add unnecessary stress and potentially even hinder performance in the workplace. It’s crucial to make sure you and your employer are on the same page so you can perform to the best of your ability at work.

What is the National Deaf-Blind Equipment Distribution Program?

Posted by RelaySDAdmin on Nov 03, 2016

Communication assistance isn’t just limited to support for deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals. In fact, there’s a national organization that provides tools specifically for deaf-blind people looking to improve their communication access.

The National Deaf-Blind Equipment Distribution Program (NDBEDP), or iCanConnect, is a program designed to help individuals with combined hearing and vision loss obtain communication technology.

4 Pieces of Advice for Hunting with Hearing Loss

Posted by RelaySDAdmin on Oct 26, 2016

Now that fall has officially arrived, outdoorsy types are preparing for their favorite hunting seasons. No matter what you hunt, hearing can be a huge asset while hunting. However, even if you are deaf, hard of hearing or have profound hearing loss, you can still be an active and successful hunter.

Consider the following four pieces of advice for hard-of-hearing hunters.

5 Steps to Managing Severe Hearing Loss

Posted by RelaySDAdmin on Sep 12, 2016

Hearing loss happens because of losses of or damage to cilia, the tiny hairs located in your inner ear. Because these hairs can’t be regenerated, it is important to note that any treatment for hearing loss will likely not restore your original levels of hearing ability.

6 Classroom Tips for Hard-of-Hearing Students

Posted by RelaySDAdmin on Aug 29, 2016

Schools are full of noise, from the hallways, to the cafeteria, to the classrooms. But when it comes to hard-of-hearing students, teachers should consider a few methods for making the classroom environment ideal for listening and communicating.

How to Combat Farming Hearing Loss

Posted by RelaySDAdmin on Jun 22, 2016

In South Dakota, it’s a foregone conclusion that most people will be exposed to agriculture and farming in some capacity, whether it’s a friend or family member who owns, operates or works on or near a farm.

But with farming comes a lot of potential for hearing damage. Keep the following tips in mind to combat farming-related hearing loss.

10 Common Myths About Lip-Reading

Posted by RelaySDAdmin on Jun 15, 2016

When it comes to communicating through hearing loss, one of the best tools at your disposal is learning to lip-read. In the right lighting and with your conversation partner’s face in view, it can be an effective strategy.

There are, however, a lot of assumptions people might make about lip-reading that are false – take a look at these myths.

5 Signs You Need to Address Your Hearing Loss

Posted by RelaySDAdmin on May 25, 2016

It’s not always easy to tell when your hearing loss has become serious enough that you need to take steps to treat it. But there are several signs and symptoms of a pressing need to address your hearing loss.

Protect Yourself from Hearing Loss on the Job

Posted by Admin on May 18, 2016

While your employer should make every effort to provide a safe working environment for you and your fellow employees, some jobs require a certain degree of exposure to noise throughout the day, whether it’s sudden or ongoing.

Regardless of your own situation, there are ways to prevent short- and long-term hearing loss that results from a noisy workplace.

4 Ways You’re Damaging Your Ears

Posted by RelaySDAdmin on May 11, 2016

Just because it’s always been done, doesn’t mean it’s necessarily the right thing to do. Some standard practices when it comes to your ears, from cleaning to listening, have the potential to do more harm than good in the long run.

The following are some ways in which you might be doing damage to your ears.

3 Types of Assistive Listening Devices

Posted by RelaySDAdmin on Mar 30, 2016

When it comes to easing the day-to-day ability of hearing-impaired or hard-of-hearing individuals, assistive listening devices, or “ALDs,” can go a long way toward making hearing and comprehending that much more possible.

How Treating Your Hearing Loss Treats More than Your Hearing

Posted by RelaySDAdmin on Mar 23, 2016

When you are hearing impaired, adding an assistive-listening device (ALD) or hearing aid to your daily life can be advantageous – after all, it’ll help you have conversations and interact with others more clearly and easily.

But utilizing these devices can have an even bigger impact on your long-term health and quality of life beyond just being able to listen better.

Here are just a few of the positive side effects of using ALDs and hearing aids.

4 Tips for Stress Relief in People with Hearing Loss

Posted by RelaySDAdmin on Mar 16, 2016

Social interactions and conversations under certain circumstances can be stressful or cause anxiety. Introduce hearing impairment into the equation, and stress can escalate quickly for both people involved.

Combating Listener Fatigue in People with Hearing Loss

Posted by RelaySDAdmin on Mar 09, 2016

When you’ve suffered from hearing loss, just listening to someone for great lengths of time can be exhausting. What those with normal hearing may not understand is that “listener fatigue” is a real problem for hearing-impaired people.

7 Well Known People Who Have Experienced Hearing Loss

Posted by RelaySDAdmin on Mar 02, 2016

People who have experienced hearing loss from birth or from childhood illnesses, or impairment related to aging, include individuals from all walks of life. Here are a few well-known public figures who have experienced hearing loss.

What Causes Hearing Loss?

Posted by RelaySDAdmin on Feb 17, 2016

A variety of factors can contribute to hearing loss, some of which are more prevalent than others. When it comes to prevention and precaution, knowledge of these causes can go a long way. Here are some of the triggers that can cause damage or rupture.

5 Tips for Talking to Friends and Family

Posted by RelaySDAdmin on Feb 10, 2016

It can be tough to deal with the onset of hearing loss alone – so make sure you pass along the right knowledge to your friends and family so you have ample support. Once you’ve been seen by an audiologist or otolaryngologist, try on the following tips for size to maximize conversations with those around you.

Simple Steps for Effective Communication

Posted by RelaySDAdmin on Jan 27, 2016

Communication between those with and without hearing loss can get tricky. The key to making a successful connection is educating and advising hearing people on the best ways to talk to you to prevent frustration on either party’s part. Here are a few steps you can take to make having conversations with hearing people easier:

Technology and You: 4 Relay Services Available

Posted by RelaySDAdmin on Jan 13, 2016

Utilizing Relay South Dakota’s free technology services can help connect you with your loved ones in ways you’ve never imagined. Through relay services, you can contact people around the world any day or time of the year by dialing the toll-free number, 711. Here are how some of the options work.

Meet the Relay South Dakota Outreach & Education Team!

Sprint Relay Celebrates 25th Anniversary

Posted by RelaySDAdmin on Jun 12, 2015

Relay SD selected Sprint Relay as its provider of choice last summer following a robust RFP process. Sprint Relay, the nation’s largest Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS) provider, brings years of experience to this exciting partnership as it celebrates 25 years of service in 2015.

Relay SD Sponsors SD Association of the Deaf 50th Anniversary

Exciting Preview from Ultratec: Braille CapTel

Posted by RelaySDAdmin on Jul 24, 2014

CapTel looks and acts just like any other telephone, with one important difference: it provides text captions of everything a caller says. If you cannot hear what the caller says, you can read the captions on the built-in display and coming soon - on a dynamic braille display!

New Communications Technology Reconnecting South Dakota’s Deaf-Blind

Posted by RelaySDAdmin on Mar 03, 2014

Gayle Aamold, a 72-year-old grandmother from Hartford, South Dakota, is computer savvy. She’s a whiz on email, surfing the internet, posting on Facebook and calling with Skype. But her low vision and hearing –